Planning a trip to Northern Portugal? You’ve come to the right place!

Your Complete Northern Portugal Travel Guide

Beyond Porto, Northern Portugal is full of fascinating places waiting to be explored. From the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães to the picturesque towns of the Minho, the vineyards of the Douro Valley and the spectacular landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park, there’s plenty to discover. This Northern Portugal Travel Guide will help you plan an amazing trip.

Douro Valley

Guimarães

Braga

Lamego

Amarante

Start Planning Your Trip to Northern Portugal

Whether you’re planning a road trip, looking for a weekend getaway or simply want to explore somewhere a little different, this Northern Portugal Travel Guide will help you discover the best destinations, things to do and places to visit.

Book Activities in Porto

If you’re starting your Northern Portugal adventure in Porto, why not add a few experiences to your itinerary? Browse our selection of activities and experiences in Porto, from private yacht trips and surfing lessons to creative workshops and group activities.

FAQs

Is Northern Portugal worth visiting?

Absolutely! Northern Portugal is one of the most diverse and interesting parts of the country, offering historic cities, medieval towns, beautiful beaches, wine regions and spectacular natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in culture, food, outdoor adventures or simply exploring somewhere different, there’s plenty to see and do.

How many days do you need in Northern Portugal?

We recommend spending at least five to seven days exploring Northern Portugal, although you could easily spend longer. This gives you time to visit some of the region’s main destinations, including Braga, Guimarães and the Douro Valley, without spending your entire holiday travelling between places.

What is the best time of year to visit Northern Portugal?

Spring and early autumn are excellent times to visit, with generally pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. Summer is ideal for exploring the beaches, enjoying outdoor activities and visiting the Douro Valley, although temperatures can get quite high inland. Winters are generally wetter and cooler, particularly in the mountains.

What are the best places to visit in Northern Portugal?

Some of the highlights include exploring the historic city of Braga, discovering the medieval streets of Guimarães, visiting the picturesque town of Ponte de Lima, enjoying the scenery of the Douro Valley and exploring the mountains and waterfalls of Peneda-Gerês National Park. There are also plenty of beautiful coastal towns and traditional villages to discover.

Is Northern Portugal expensive to visit?

Northern Portugal is generally more affordable than many popular European holiday destinations, although prices vary depending on where you visit. Cities and popular tourist areas can be more expensive, particularly during summer, but smaller towns and rural destinations often offer better value for accommodation, food and activities.

Do you need a car to explore Northern Portugal?

Having a car makes exploring Northern Portugal much easier, particularly if you want to visit smaller towns, rural villages, the Douro Valley or Peneda-Gerês National Park. However, larger cities such as Braga, Guimarães and Viana do Castelo are accessible by train or bus from Porto, making it possible to explore some of the region without driving.